Home Equity Loan: Lump Sum, Fixed Payments

One lump sum upfront with a fixed rate and fixed monthly payments. When you know the amount you need and want predictability, a home equity loan fits. Best when you prefer one known payment.

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Home Equity Loan Highlights

A lump-sum second mortgage with fixed rate and fixed payments. Your first mortgage stays in place—add a separate loan for a known amount.

Lump sum upfront

One amount, one set of fixed monthly payments. Easier to budget than a revolving line of credit.

Fixed rate

Your rate and payment stay the same for the life of the loan. No surprises when rates move.

Second lien

Your first mortgage stays in place. A home equity loan adds a separate loan secured by your equity.

5–30 year terms

Typical terms range from 5 to 30 years. Choose the term that fits your budget and timeline.

Why a Home Equity Loan Works

When you know the amount you need and want one predictable payment—renovation, debt consolidation, or a one-time expense—a home equity loan delivers.

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Predictable payments

One fixed payment monthly—no variable-rate surprises.

Known amount

Lump sum fits when you know exactly what you need.

Often lower rate than HELOC

Fixed rates can beat HELOCs, especially for longer terms.

Home Equity Loan At a Glance

Rates & terms

Fixed rates, typically 5–30 year terms. Your payment stays the same for the life of the loan. Compare 5-, 10-, 15-, 20-, and 30-year options above.

Home equity loan guide →

How much can you borrow?

Lenders typically allow 80–90% of home value minus your first mortgage. Combined loan-to-value (CLTV) limits vary.

Income, credit, and debt-to-income also affect your limit.

Loan vs alternatives

Need flexibility? A HELOC lets you draw as needed. Want to replace your mortgage? See cash-out refinance.

Compare all options →

Compare Home Equity Options

FeatureHELOCHome Equity LoanCash-Out Refi
PayoutRevolving LineLump SumNew Mortgage
Interest RateVariableFixedFixed
First Mortgage RateUntouchedUntouchedReplaced
Best ForOngoing renovationsOne-time projectsDebt overhaul
Time to Close2–4 weeks (Fastest, often no full appraisal)3–5 weeks (Requires more verification)30–45 days (Full mortgage underwriting process)
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Frequently Asked Questions